Expert: Jonathan - 12/15/2004

Question
Hello John, this is a rather trivial question in the grand scope of things, but it has been a talking point between a friend and me. He states that Jesus wanted us to be 'neutral' in things not related directly to religion, like politics, friendships, memberships, "Give unto Ceasar", etc. I mentioned that Jesus was not 'neutral' with the Coin Changers, and he challenged me to name other passages in the Bible that disproves his point of Jesus's 'neutrality' and I could not, can you? Thank you for your kind help, regards, Ken.

Answer
Ken, about all I can think of that showed Jesus wanted us to be good citizens which is probably not the same as being neutral is that he did not tell them they were not to pay taxes but were to pay taxes since they were not directly related to God.  As far as politics go he never stated anything about getting involved in politics since there was no way for people to aspire for political office since Israel had a king and he made appoitments.  No one voted.  As far as friendships go he was a friend to tax collectors, prostitutes, sinners who were well known and of course he was criticized for sitting with such people let alone eating with them.  They were the kind of people that were looked down upon.  They were not necessarily believers in him but he still kept company with them.  On memberships I have read where jesus belonged to a sect called the Escenes.  He did not advocate that religious leaders get involved in influencing the governemnt in power.  He made it a point that the domination of Israel by Rome was not what kept them in bondage but rather it was sin in their lives that was the real bondage they were subject to.  I personally do not think he would approve of the religious right getting involved in modern day politics and seeking to elect people who think as they do.  It has only led to politicians who are not known for honesty and integrity to pander to the religious right by asking for church membership lists so they can canvass members.  It invites them to put on a holy image when their true purpose is to get elected.